Israel Delays Withdrawal from Lebanon

Israel has decided to delay its withdrawal from two pilot zones in southern Lebanon, citing the need for an agreement on a joint monitoring mechanism with Beirut. A framework agreement was signed between Lebanon and Israel on June 26, outlining Israel's phased withdrawal from all occupied Lebanese territories. According to Israeli military sources, the withdrawal from the Zavtar and Ferrun regions in southern Lebanon will be delayed. The Israeli military emphasized the importance of a 'correct and flawless' withdrawal, but no clear timeline has been established. The agreement ties the withdrawal process to the Lebanese army's assumption of full security responsibility in the areas Israel withdraws from, as well as the disarmament of armed groups, including Hezbollah.